Silver Linings I've Found in these Hard Times

It seems like these days it's hard to have a conversation without talking about the virus or the many aspects of how it is impacting our lives. While this situation and talking about it, or hearing about it constantly on the news can be exhausting, I've found that being able to talk about it with others is a good way to de-stress and feel like we're not facing things alone.

But instead of rehashing the negative, I've tried lately in my conversations to reflect more on some of the silver linings the pandemic has created in my life and possibly others. Maybe some of these silver linings will resonate with you too!

Silver lining #1: Actually connecting with others

I realize now that before the pandemic, I took a lot of my friends and family for granted because they were always available. But now, I really have to make active plans and work to stay in touch because I haven't been able to see them as much. I have regular phone calls with my grandparents, who I'm not able to visit in-person and they need the social time too. I also make more active efforts to make plans with friends who I am able to see and socially distance with.

Silver lining #2: Taking time to work on my mental and physical health

When things were normal, I often found it hard to find the time and energy to workout regularly and write in my journal, things that really impact my health. Now that I have more time and flexibility with work, I workout every morning, take breaks to go on a walk or bike ride, and journal more. I even decided I was ready to try therapy again. I also got back into mountain biking, which makes me really happy and healthy, but takes time and energy.

Silver lining #3: Saving money and spending where it counts

Sure, I'm spending less on gas and travel than I usually do this time of year. But I also spend less on eating out because I have more time to plan and cook my meals. When I do spend money, I've gravitated more toward paying down debt or spending money on friends, family and doing fun things. (I've spent a fair amount on puzzles and books, for sure!)

Silver lining #4: Realizing how much we all depend on each other

If anything, I think a big takeaway from the pandemic is that we impact each other more than we realize. Our actions and choices, whether it's to stay inside or to go out, or to wear a mask or not, directly impact other people's lives. It can be sad to see people make choices that end up hurting others, but the silver lining is that we can feel empowered in knowing that we can make choices to help other people.

I hope that you are finding your own silver linings during this crazy time. Stay strong!